Syros sightseeing - Places to visit in Syros

September 1, 2008

Syros is an island of the Cycladic Archipelago. It is the administrative center of the archipelago and its capital, Ermoupolis, is the capital of the entire archipelago. Its land is mountainous and barren, with some fertile small valleys. Its coasts have beautiful sandy beaches, small gulfs and clean sea waters. One of the attractions of the island is its very interesting neoclassical architecture, which makes it different from the other Cyclades Islands.

There are many interesting places to visit on the island. The Medieval settlement of Ano Syros, built by the Venetians on the top of a hill, with a wonderful view of the sea, is an evocative reminder of its past, unchanged by time. Neoclassical mansions, surrounded by beautiful flower gardens, can be found in every village of the island. Two caves of Syros, that of Alithini and that of Plati Vouni, have historical interest, like the places of residence of the prophet Pherekydis, the teacher of Pythagoras. The beautiful coasts of the northern side of the island, which cannot be reached by road, can be visited by boat.

Syros Architecture

The architecture of Syros is different from the architecture of the other Cycladic Islands and is characterized by the neoclassical buildings, which were constructed throughout the island in the past century. Ermoupolis, the capital, is considered one of the most remarkable neoclassical places of Greece. Its architecture reminds visitors of the splendor and the power of the past. Its neoclassical Orthodox and Catholic churches, its mansions and its theatre, built as a replica of the theater La Scala of Milano, are important elements of the architecture of the island. The theater hosts many interesting performances every year.

Syros Historical Places

  • The Prehistoric Cemetery, at the site of Halandriani, in the northern part of the island. In its tombs, many findings of the Cycladic civilization were discovered.
  • The ruins of a Prehistoric Acropolis, to the north of Halandriani, at the site of Kastri.

Syros Monasteries

  • The Monastery of the Capuchin Monks, founded in 1635, in the Medieval settlement of Ano Syros.
  • The Monastery of the Jesuit Monks, in the Medieval settlement of Ano Syros.
  • The Monastery of Faneromeni, to the north of the village of Vari.
  • The Monastery of Agia Varvara, near the village of Kini, known for its handwoven fabrics.

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